NGO initiative: 24x7 women-only taxi service launched in Shimla

A 24x7 women-only taxi service, initiated by the NGO ‘The Society for Connecting Lives’, was officially launched today to provide safe and affordable transport for women within the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation, Shimla. The service was flagged off by Surender Chauhan, Mayor of Shimla.

Speaking at the event, Bimla Thakur, president of the NGO, shared that the organisation primarily supports single mothers and widowed women. The taxi service aims to provide a reliable mode of transportation for women, especially during urgent travel needs. “Initially, we launched the service on a pilot basis in February using a private vehicle. Now, we’ve purchased a commercial taxi, which will be driven by a woman and available only to women passengers at a reasonable fare,” she said.

The initial focus was on nighttime service, but it received limited response with just two to three calls. “We realized that unlike metropolitan cities, women in Shimla do not travel much at night. Hence, we expanded the service to operate during the daytime as well,” Thakur explained.

Women can book the taxi by calling 9418956561. An app is also in development and expected to launch within two months, making the booking process more convenient. The NGO also plans to expand the fleet in the future, thereby creating employment opportunities for women drivers.

Mayor Surender Chauhan praised the initiative, calling it a unique and much-needed step for the safety and empowerment of women in the town. “I congratulate the NGO and the women associated with this service. As a gesture of support, I will donate 50% of my one-month salary to the NGO,” he announced. He also mentioned that the Municipal Corporation has allotted a free parking space near the Lift, resolving a key challenge faced by the NGO.

This initiative marks a significant step toward women’s empowerment and safer public transport in Shimla.